One suspect charged in church vandalism in Jackson; more charges likely

The Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office has authorized petitions against one of two teens accused of causing more than $40,000 of damage to the Lily Missionary Baptist Church, 1117 W. G. Wade Drive, on Jan. 8.

A 13-year-old faces a petition — the term used in juvenile court for a criminal charge — for auto-theft. Other charges could follow, including malicious destruction of property and attempted safe-breaking, said Chief Assistant Prosecutor Mark Blumer. A 17-year-old also accused in the crime is expected to face charges in adult court; he has not been charged.

The two teens are accused of pouring religious oils around the pulpit, breaking down doors and attempting to break into a safe. They also are accused of stealing a church van, which was totaled in a rollover crash in Concord.

Blumer said proceeding won’t begin until the prosecutor’s office receives a report from police detailing damage costs to the church, which will likely increase penalties.